Since I’ve become an Army from 2017, it’s safe to say I’ve seen billions of BTS performances, but no doubt I still probably haven’t seen them all.
One thing about me is that performances matter. A song can already be amazing on its own, but when it’s paired with a powerful stage, it instantly levels up. And BTS is especially known for this. They don’t just perform, just literally pour their heart out.
Over the years, there have been many unforgettable stages, but only a few performances truly stuck with me. Whether it’s for sentimental reasons or simply just because they were that iconic, these are my Top 5 BTS performances of all time.
Let’s get into it 💜
Top 5: “Young Forever” – Love Yourself Tour at Wembley Stadium
This performance may not include choreography, but emotionally? It hits hard.
“Young Forever” is a song that carries so much meaning for BTS. From their early struggles to the endless criticism they faced, ARMYs were the light that guided them through it all. The mutual emotional support between BTS and ARMY is something truly special.
What made this stage even more unforgettable was that this was a project prepared by ARMYs. Seeing this moment take place at an international venue like Wembley just proves how deeply BTS impacts people worldwide. Language barriers don’t matter when music and emotion connects people.
Top 4: IDOL — MMA 2018
This performance was pure energy.
IDOL is definitely one of my favorite BTS songs to see performed live because it’s fun and bold. What really stood out to me during this stage was the incorporation of Korean culture, with the members wearing hanbok.
I really admire artists who stay true to their roots. Confidence, culture, and pride all in one performance—respect, always.
Top 3: MIC Drop – MAMA 2017 & MBC 2018
From the very first listen, MIC Drop was that song for me.
Everything about this song is perfection: the composition, the lyrics, the attitude—chef’s kiss. The extended performances with breakdancing took it to another level and felt like a clear statement to the industry.
As for the MBC 2018 performance, the styling deserves its own applause. The simple black-and-red outfits were clean, powerful, and visually striking. Sometimes less really is more.
Top 2: BTS Blood Sweat & Tears — MMA 2016
This performance was the turning point for me.
Just seconds into the opening, I knew I was witnessing something great. This was the moment BTS earned not only my attention, but my respect. Before this, I’ll admit I was pretty ignorant about K-pop. But this stage completely shattered my assumptions. I realized how wrong I was and knew I needed to give BTS a fair chance.
Once I fell down the BTS rabbit hole, there was no turning back.
.
.
Lastly, And the winner is… drumroll please
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Top 1: BTS DNA — AMAs 2017
“DNA” at the AMAs takes the number one spot for a very personal reason—it’s the song that got me into BTS. If interested, “Here is how I Became a BTS Army“.
At the time, I was heavily into electronic dance music, so “DNA” fit perfectly into my taste. From the melody to the beat drop, it pulled me in instantly.
The choreography was sharp, the song was catchy, and the confidence they carried on an American award show stage was undeniable. I didn’t know their names yet, but I knew I wanted to know more. And honestly? I’ve never regretted it for a second.
Final Thoughts
There are so many legendary BTS performances, and narrowing it down to just five was not easy.
From emotional connections to jaw-dropping performances, these moments are why BTS I’m so proud of them. I can’t wait to see what performances will make this list in the future as they are coming back in 2026.
Youa’s Truly,
